UK Adult Dependent Relative Visa

UK Adult Dependent Relative Visa — Compassionate Support for Family Reunification

Bringing your parents or dependent relatives to live with you in the UK can be a deeply emotional and often complex process. The Adult Dependent Relative (ADR) Visa exists to help families care for their loved ones who can no longer look after themselves abroad — allowing them to join family members who can provide long-term personal support and stability in the UK.

At The McKenzie Friend, we handle every ADR application with sensitivity, professionalism, and attention to detail — ensuring the Home Office fully understands your loved one’s dependency and the care you provide.

What Is the Adult Dependent Relative Visa?

This visa allows parents, grandparents, siblings, or adult children of a British citizen, settled person, or someone with refugee/humanitarian protection to join them in the UK — if they require long-term personal care that cannot be provided in their home country.

Who Qualifies as a Dependent Relative?

Applicants must be:

• Parents or grandparents aged 18 or over
• Adult children, brothers, or sisters aged 18 or over
• Dependents of a British citizen or a person settled in the UK

And they must demonstrate that:

• They require long-term personal care due to age, illness, or disability
• Care needed is not available or affordable in their home country
• The UK sponsor can provide accommodation, care, and financial support without relying on public funds

Typical Examples

We’ve supported many families in similar situations:

• Example 1: An elderly mother with advanced arthritis who can no longer live independently and requires daily care.
• Example 2: A widowed parent suffering from Alzheimer’s whose only remaining family is their British citizen child.
• Example 3: A disabled sibling who has no access to adequate care in their home country.

Evidence You’ll Need

Strong supporting documentation is essential. The Home Office will expect detailed evidence of dependency, care needs, and financial capacity. Common evidence includes:

• Medical reports confirming long-term care needs
• Proof that care is unavailable or unaffordable in the applicant’s home country
• Bank statements and financial records of the UK sponsor
• Proof of accommodation (ownership or tenancy documents)
• Care letters, social service assessments, or doctor’s statements
• Proof of relationship (birth certificates, family photos, correspondence)

How the Application Process Works

1. Initial Assessment: We review the dependent relative’s health and financial background to ensure eligibility.
2. Evidence Compilation: We work closely with doctors and carers to create a detailed care statement.
3. Application Submission: Assistance completing the online form and gathering required documentation.
4. Medical & Financial Review: Preparation of a clear letter explaining why local care is not an option.
5. Decision Stage: The Home Office reviews the evidence and may request further clarification or an interview.

How Long Does It Take?

• Applications made outside the UK typically take 12–24 weeks.
• Decisions depend on the complexity of the medical and financial circumstances.

Challenges with This Visa Route

The ADR route is one of the most difficult family immigration categories — refusals often occur due to insufficient medical or financial evidence. We help you avoid common pitfalls by:

• Working directly with medical professionals to produce persuasive documentation
• Drafting a detailed cover letter explaining your family’s circumstances
• Ensuring all financial evidence meets the UK sponsorship standards
• Preparing you for any Home Office follow-up queries

Why Choose The McKenzie Friend?

• Specialised in compassionate family and dependent applications
• Step-by-step support from initial consultation to decision
• Medical and social care document guidance
• Professional drafting of evidence-based statements
• Affordable fixed-fee support, no hourly charges

The McKenzie Friend offers professional immigration guidance and collaborates with OISC-regulated advisers for complex or appeal-level ADR cases.